closing the gap july 7-9, 2014, murfreesboro, tn conference program... · 2014. 11. 4. ·...
TRANSCRIPT
1
Closing the Gap
July 7-9, 2014, Murfreesboro, TN
Institute Reception and Registration
The Embassy Suites Hotel
1200 Conference Center Boulevard, Murfreesboro, TN 37129.
July 9, 2014
3:00 – 9:00 pm
www.the-taea.org
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2014 TAEA Conference At A Glance
Monday,
July 7, 2014
3:00 - 6:00 pm Exhibitor Set-up and Registration
6:00 - 9:00 pm TAEA Reception
Tuesday,
July 8, 2014
7:00 - 9:00 am Registration
7:30 - 8:00 am
Introduction of the TAEA Board
Welcoming Remarks
Director Rutherford County Schools, Don Odom
Senator Jim Tracy
Rutherford County Sheriff, Robert Arnold
Vice-president of the NAEA, Kay Davenport
8:00 - 8:45 am Opening Keynote Chad Foster
8:45 - 9:00 am Refreshment/Exhibitor Break
9:00 - 10:00 am Breakout Session 1
10:00 - 11:00 am Breakout Session 2
11:00 - 12:00 pm Breakout Session 3
12:00 - 1:00 pm Lunch
1:00 - 1:45 pm
General Session – Pat Conner, Tennessee Department of Education
Bill Hunter, Crystal Jacobs, RT Fisher’s FACEIT Class
1:45 - 2:00 pm Refreshment/Exhibitor Break
2:00 - 3:00 pm Breakout Session 4
3:00 - 4:00 pm Breakout Session 5
Wednesday,
July 9, 2014
8:00 - 8:45 am
Opening Remarks - General Session
Luke Kohlmoos, Tennessee Department of Education
8:45 - 9:00 am Refreshment/Exhibitor Break
9:00 - 10:00 am Breakout Session 6
10:00 - 11:00 am Breakout Session 7
11:00 - 12:00 pm Breakout Session 8
12:00 - 1:00 pm Closing Session - Annual Meeting of Members -Door Prizes
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Table of Contents
Conference At A Glance 2
Table of Contents 3
Letter from the President of the Tennessee Alternative Education
Association (TAEA) 4
Welcome Letter – Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce 5
Welcome Letter – Conference Chair/Vice President Tennessee
Alternative Education Association (TAEA) 6
Our Sponsors 7
Conference Schedule 8 – 9
Keynote and General Session Speakers 10
Session Descriptions 11 - 23
TAEA Board of Directors 24
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Dear TAEA Members,
On behalf of the board of the Tennessee Alternative Education Association (TAEA), it is my honor to
welcome all alternative and non-traditional educators to the 2014 Tennessee Alternative Education
Association Conference, as well as other professionals who work on behalf of children who are
receiving alternative education services. Over the next few days you will learn more about current
work being done in the field of alternative education. You will also learn about current research in the
field of alternative education.
I hope your time in Murfreesboro will be informative and provide you with the professional learning
and knowledge you desire. I hope you leave this conference inspired to continue the much needed
work ensuring that all students gain an education to become productive citizens.
I would like to recognize the members of the Governor’s Advisory Board as well as the National
Alterative Education Association (NAEA) for their support of our association. Special thanks to our
conference chairmen Lee Farris and Major Shelton.
Thank you for your attendance at the 2014 TENNESSEE ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION
ASSOCIATION Summer Institute!
Sincerely,
Paul W. Thacker
Paul W. Thacker
TAEA President
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Welcome Letter – Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce
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Attendees of the 2014 TAEA Conference:
The Tennessee Alternative Education Association (TAEA) would like to personally welcome each of you to
Murfreesboro where we are “Closing the Gap!” We began planning this conference last August when we sent
out a survey to find out what you our members would like more information on. Your responses to the survey
assisted us in selecting our presenters for your 2014 conference.
Over the course of the next two days, you will learn new techniques on how to implement RTI2 and Common
Core in the alternative school setting. You will also have the opportunity to collaborate with experts on special
education, school counseling, service learning, personal finance, and relationship building. We hope you will
use what you learn at the conference to better educate your students and prepare them for the future while
assisting your school districts in closing the achievement gap between alternative education students,
including special education students, and the higher performing general education students.
Other topics you will be exposed to while in Murfreesboro include gang awareness, trends in prescription drug
abuse, community coalitions, and teacher evaluations.
Our presenters include alternative teachers and administrators, school counselors, instructional facilitators,
central office staff, local and state law enforcement, social workers, and representatives from the Tennessee
Department of Education. We also have alternative educators from Georgia, South Carolina, and Texas who
will be sharing their success stories!
We encourage you to take the time to talk with your peers and share your experiences in alternative and
traditional education. Also, take the time to discuss what programs and strategies are being utilized in other
schools to motivate their students to become actively engaged in their learning.
In your free time, venture out and explore Rutherford County, and be sure to go across the street to the
Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce to see what they have to offer to make your stay more enjoyable.
In closing, we would like to thank each of you for attending your conference and bringing your expertise to
Murfreesboro.
Respectfully,
Lee Farris
Lee Farris TAEA Vice-President Conference Chairman
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"Train up a child in the way he should go; and when
he is old he will not depart from it" Proverbs 22:6
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TAEA Summer Institute July 7-9, 2014
Monday, July 7
Time Location Event/Session Title
3:00 - 6:00pm Conference Hall Registration
6:00 - 9:00pm Oakleigh AB Welcome to Murfreesboro Reception
Tuesday, July 8
Time Location Event/Session Title
7:00 - 8:00am Conference Hall Registration
7:30 - 8:00am Mirabella ABC
Opening Remarks, TAEA Board Introduction
Don Odom, Director of Rutherford County Schools, Rutherford County Sheriff
Robert Arnold, Senator Jim Tracy, Kay Davenport, Vice President NAEA
8:00 -8:45am Mirabella ABC Keynote, Chad Foster
8:45 -9:00am Conference Hall Break/Visit Exhibitors
9:00-10:00am Mirabella A Continuation from keynote session, Chad Foster
Mirabella B Successful Implementation of RTI2 in an Alternative Setting, Karen Willey
Mirabella C 10 Traits of a Highly Effective Virtual School, Dr. James Witty
Mirabella D Gang Awareness, Corporal Jim Sanford
10:00-11:00am Mirabella A Behavioral Interventions - Joe Marlin
Mirabella B Building the Pyramid - Implementing RTI2 - Trey Duke
Mirabella C
Residential Treatment Facilities in South Carolina, This is How We Do It! - Kim
Allen
Mirabella D Vets in the Classroom - Mariah Phillips
11:00-12:00pm Mirabella A Empower Teachers, Encourage Students, Elevate Learning - Brenda Prestage
Mirabella B Quasi-experimental design in program evaluation - Keith Tobias
Mirabella C Transformative Professional Development using Current Teacher Evaluations -
Dr. Dale Mathis
Mirabella D Maintaining a Comprehensive School Counseling in an Alternative School
Setting - Tishara Robinson
12:00 - 1:00pm Oakleigh AB Lunch
1:00 - 1:45pm Mirabella ABC
General Sessions - RT Fisher's FACEIT Class - Pat Conner, Bill Hunter, Crystal
Jacobs
1:45 - 2:00pm Conference Hall Break/Visit Exhibitors
2:00-3:00pm Mirabella A Empower Teachers, Encourage Students, Elevate Learning - Brenda Prestage
Mirabella B Successful Implementation of RTI2 in an Alternative Setting - Karen Willey
Mirabella C Close Reading & Reading Closely – Creating Text Dependent Questions for
Close Analytical Reading - Edie Emery
Mirabella D Prescription Drugs in Tennessee - Tommy Farmer
3:00-4:00pm Mirabella A Gang Awareness - Corporal Jim Sanford
Mirabella B
Making the Connection- Attendance to Alternative Education - Jeannette
Hennings
Mirabella C Beyond the Textbook: FREE Teaching Tools for Personal Finance, Economics,
History, Business & More - Jackie Morgan, Jeannette Bennett
Mirabella D Community Anti-Drug Coalition of Rutherford County
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Wednesday, July 9
Tine Location Session Title
8:00 - 8:45 am Mirabella ABC Opening Remarks/General Session
Teacher Evaluations, Luke Kohlmoos, Tennessee Department of Education
8:45 -9:00 am Conference Hall Break/Visit Exhibitors
9:00-10:00 am
Mirabella A Q&A Teacher Evaluations - Luke Kohlmoos
Mirabella B Focusing Our Efforts - Kate Kasuboski, Janice Fox
Mirabella C
Spectrum Academy Nashville, Classroom Strategies That Work - Annette Kelly,
Tony Van Gytenbeck, Tim Ulmer
Mirabella D Building Resilience - Christian Moore
10:00-11:00 am
Mirabella A There Is a Hero Inside of You - James Martin
Mirabella B Focusing Our Efforts - Kate Kasuboski, Janice Fox
Mirabella C Early Release Intervention Program - Jason Newman
Mirabella D Building Resilience - Christian Moore
11:00-12:00 pm
Mirabella A
Meeting the Needs of Students with Disabilities in an Alternative School Setting -
Karen Ball
Mirabella B Improving Student Behavioral Through Improved Student-Teacher
Relationships - Donald P. Gramke
Mirabella C Maintaining a Comprehensive School Counseling in an Alternative School Setting - Tishara Robinson
Mirabella D Collaborating to Serve-Leading Schools Through Connecting With Community
Stakeholders - Ja'net Bishop
12:00-1:00 pm Mirabella ABC Annual Meeting of Membership and Closing Session
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Keynote and General Session Speakers
The value of any education is greatly diminished if it does not include 21st century skills. Students who are
educated, but not prepared, will fail when they enter the workplace and students who enter the real world
with knowledge, but without critical workplace skills, will struggle. Best-selling author, Chad Foster, will
share strategies and practices for preparing all students for their inevitable destination...the world of work.
Chad Foster
Chad Foster is a successful entrepreneur, credited with developing and marketing the soft rubber playground
surface seen at McDonald’s restaurants around the world. He is also the author of three best-selling books,
Teenagers Preparing for the Real World, Financial Literacy for Teens, and Career Readiness for Teens. Chad’s
books have been read by more than one million students and his dynamic 21st Century skills curricula are used
in 4,500 middle school and high school classrooms nationwide.
Chad has served as a distinguished lecturer for the New England College of Business. This entrepreneur, best-
selling author, and nationally acclaimed speaker also hosted, for eight years, his own television show, Fly
Fishing America, seen on ESPN.
Keynote Speaker, Tuesday, July 8, 2014 8:00 am – 8:45am
___________________________________
RT Fisher’s FACEIT Class
Pat Conner
Executive Director Office of Safe and Supportive Schools, Tennessee Department of Education
Bill Hunter
Bill Hunter serves a school counselor at RT Fisher Alternative School in Gallatin, Tennessee. After working full
time as school counselor at Gallatin High School for twelve years, he came to RT Fisher where he began to
address the growing number of repeat alcohol and drug offenders in Sumner County Schools. He has led the
parent module of the FACEIT program for the past five years.
Crystal Jacob
Crystal Jacobs serves as the Transition Coordinator at RT Fisher Alternative School. Her primary task is to
support alternative school students as they reenter their home school. A native of New York, Crystal came to
RT Fisher through her internship while completing her Master’s program in counseling. Crystal has served as
the FACEIT Program Coordinator for the past two years.
General Session Tuesday, July 8, 2014 1:00 pm – 1:45pm
___________________________________
Teacher Evaluations
Luke Kohlmoos
Director of Evaluation, Tennessee Department of Education
General Session Wednesday, July 9, 2014 8:00 am – 8:45am
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Tuesday, July 8, 2014
9:00 – 10:00 am, Breakout Session 1 Presenters
Keynote
The value of any education is greatly diminished if it does not include 21st century skills. Students who are
educated, but not prepared, will fail when they enter the workplace and students who enter the real world
with knowledge, but without critical workplace skills, will struggle. Best-selling author, Chad Foster, will share
strategies and practices for preparing all students for their inevitable destination...the world of work.
Chad Foster
Chad Foster is a successful entrepreneur, credited with developing and marketing the soft rubber playground
surface seen at McDonald’s restaurants around the world. He is also the author of three best-selling books,
Teenagers Preparing for the Real World, Financial Literacy for Teens, and Career Readiness for Teens. Chad’s
books have been read by more than one million students and his dynamic 21st Century skills curricula are used
in 4,500 middle school and high school classrooms nationwide.
___________________________________
Successful Implementation of RTI2 in an Alternative Environment
Response to Intervention and Instruction is a framework that relies on the implementation of high-quality
instruction and interventions tailored to student need where core instructional and intervention decisions are
guided by student outcome data. It is a 3-tiered system. Specifically, this presentation will focus on AIMSWEB
student management system and various interventions that may be used across all grade levels. As well,
appropriate scheduling of RTI will be discussed within the parameters of what is typically a hectic school day in
the life of an alternative school. In conclusion, there will be a presentation on AIMSWEB and how to
successfully demonstrate to parents and students what progress their student in making in the alternative
classroom.
Karen Willey
Karen is the Principal at New Directions Academy in Dickson County. Karen received her B.S. w/c and MAED in
Special Education from Austin Peay State University and an add on-endorsement in Administration and
Supervision for grades K-8 and 7-12. Karen's unique experience as the Director of Education in a residential
setting for 9 1/2 years has served to assist in programming for Dickson County's at-risk population. Karen is
married to Scott Willey and they have two daughters, Sara (24-teaches English in Montgomery County) and
Rosie (21).
Dinah Stockman
Dinah serves as the school’s second in command and as the Behavior Interventionist. Dinah Stockman has a
bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in special education. She just completed her 11th year
at New Directions Academy. Dinah is married with two young sons. In her spare time, she enjoys family and
church activities, sports, and reading.
___________________________________
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10 Traits of a Highly Effective Virtual School
In this breakout session, presents will share 10 highly effective strategies to assist school leaders in assessing
and monitoring many elements that must be in place for virtual students to be successful. Presenters will
share tools and process that facilitate the development of a high functioning virtual school, as well as a
snapshot of those practices in action. Moreover, presenters will discuss the implementation of the continuous
improvement model and the evolution of practice under this model. Finally, presenters will field questions
from participants.
Dr. James Witty
Principal, Metro Nashville Virtual School
James has vast experience in nontraditional education working with students, teachers, and families as a
teacher, district administrator, and state coordinator. While working for Murfreesboro City Schools, Dr. Witty
served as Director for Extended Learning and is noted as an expert in out-of-school learning. At the state-level,
Witty served as Director of the Center for Dropout Prevention & Alternative Education creating and launching
the entity for the Tennessee Department of Education. Additionally, James is a past Executive Secretary for
the Governor’s Advisory Council for Alternative Education acting in this capacity under Governor Phil Bredesen
and Governor Bill Haslam. Before joining Virtual School, James managed 70 plus educational reform initiatives
for the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools system as the Race to the Top Grant Coordinator. Witty is also a
past Vice-President of the National Alternative Education Association (NAEA) and past Vice-President of the
Tennessee Alternative Education Association (TAEA).
___________________________________
Gang Awareness
Objective: To bring awareness of Youth Gangs of today, Address Gang awareness in schools, Music, Hand signs,
Symbols, (such as tattoos, wearing urban styles of clothing, colors, hair styles, graffiti, etc.)
• Disclaimer: Some language or pictures may be offensive.
Corporal Jim Sanford
Graduated from Oakland H.S in 1982. Corporal Sanford graduated from Freed-Hardeman University in 1986,
with a B.S in Theology. He joined the U.S Army, and worked as a Criminal Investigator (C.I.D). Upon retiring
from the Army, he became a police officer in Tennessee in 1995. While working as a police officer Corporal
Sanford was acting chaplain and S.W.A.T and also a Defensive Tactics Instructor. He is currently with the School
Resource Officer’s (S.R.O) division at the Rutherford county Sheriff’s Office at Smyrna West Alternative School.
The last several years was selected as a Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department Gang Investigator.
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Tuesday, July 8, 2014
10:00 – 11:00 am, Breakout Session 2 Presenters:
Behavioral Interventions & Behavioral Plans
Joseph T, Marlin, Jr Ed.S
Special Education Supervisor Murfreesboro City Schools
Responsible for supervising special education staff; developing and overseeing federal and state grants;
conducting TEAM evaluation for special education staff; and providing professional development activities for
staff.
___________________________________
Building the Pyramid - Implementing RTI2
Rutherford County remains committed to ensuring all students are provided with timely, direct, and
assessment-driven interventions to improve student success. This session will detail our systematic approach
of blending the workings of the PLC with the RTI2 framework. We will focus our time on laying out the roles
and responsibilities of all faculty members in the daily implementation of RTI2.
Trey Duke
Trey Duke is the Coordinator of RTI for Rutherford County Schools, former Principal in Rutherford County.
___________________________________
Residential Treatment Faculties in South Carolina - This is How We Do It!
Find out about South Carolina's approach to providing educational services in residential treatment facilities-
the most alternative of settings! Based on SC Proviso 1.51, school districts provide and/or support education in
these settings. See how to adapt RCD and PBL to fit into this type of alternative setting. Learn how to make a
way when there doesn't seem to be one!
Kim Allen
17 years in education- 5 years teaching, 12 years in administration. 4 years as an administrator in a residential
treatment facility for behavioral health setting.
Julie Brown
13 years in education- 4 years teaching in a residential treatment facility for behavioral health setting.
___________________________________
Visit with the Vet's
Mrs. Phillips was teaching the character-building curriculum, Medal of Honor. One day, a student mentioned
that it would be interesting to meet someone, like those we are studying, who have sacrificed so much for our
country. Visit with the Vet's was born. This seminar will showcase a successful service-learning program, one
that engages the students and community in unique and impactful ways. Through this seminar, we will explore
the steps to get from idea to reflection and participate in some of the impactful lessons that inspired this
project.
Mariah Phillips
Mariah is a second year teacher at Daniel McKee Alternative School. She received her Service Learning
Endorsement and has facilitated many long and short-term service-learning projects. She will begin training
with C-SPAN in Washington DC beginning on July 10, 2014.
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Tuesday, July 8, 2014
11:00 – 12:00 pm, Breakout Session 3 Presenters:
Empower Teachers, Encourage Students, Elevate Learning
Behavior management in any classroom is optimal when research-based techniques are used that increase
academic performance and eliminate conflict escalation. Participants in this session will examine common
management styles and practice strategies that will help them teach students accountability for behavior.
Students with low-level to severe behavior issues will benefit from their teachers using these common-sense
techniques. Students can experience success, teachers can experience job satisfaction, and a campus can
experience revitalization.
Brenda Prestage
Retired principal, homebound service provider
33 years in public education: 22 as a classroom teacher, 5 years as a high school assistant principal, 4 years as a
high school principal; retired in 2011; 2 additional years as a charter school instructional coach; currently
homebound services provider.
___________________________________
Quasi-experimental design in program evaluation
The quasi-experimental design method has an over 15-year successful track record in educational research.
The discussion details the method and statistical analyses as recommended by Shadish, Cook, and Campbell
(2002). A real-life education research application from middle Tennessee is reviewed.
Keith Tobias
Math Teacher and School Data Coordinator, Daniel McKee Alternative School
BS. M.Ed. in Secondary Mathematics Education; Ed.D. in Curriculum and Instruction. 30 years business
consulting experience using statistical analyses to solve business problems. Four years teaching experience in
high school and alternative high school settings.
___________________________________
Transformative Professional Development using Current Teacher Evaluations
Legislation in twenty-five states requires school districts to develop a professional development plan for
teachers (Darling-Hammond, 2001). Over half the states are in the process of implementing some type of
training or support system for new teachers (Giebelhaus & Bendixen-Noe, 2001). "Those teachers who are
allowed to attend conferences tend to be the gifted specialists or a selected chosen few among the staff.
Teachers who teach the alternative-grade classes often are discounted and do not feel that the professional
development activities are geared toward their level of learners. I will present information that allows
alternative teachers to work collaboratively with college/university faculty and P-12 faculty in formal roles
across institutional settings.
Dr. Dale Mathis
Correctional Teacher, State of Tennessee, NWCX, Department of Corrections
Doctoral student, University of Memphis, ABD Certified P counselor, AACC Doctor of Ministry, dissertation:
Revitalizing Community Education Beginning With Children M.A. Ed. Murray State University, Special Education
30 hours, certified administration/supervision 25 years teaching in kindergarten through college.
___________________________________
15
Maintaining a Comprehensive School Counseling Program in an Alternative School Setting
How does one provide an effective ASCA-aligned school-counseling program in an alternative school setting?
Discover how an AEP/DAEP school in North Texas utilizes community resources, student families, and other
district counselors to address the academic, socio-emotional, and career needs of students K-12.
Tishara Robinson, ABD
Argosy University - Dallas 8 years school counselor 3 years At-Risk/Intervention Counselor
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Tuesday, July 8, 2014
1:00 – 1:45 pm General Session Presenters
RT Fisher's FACEIT Class
Positive, helpful parent involvement in any school is essential for developing a productive
environment. Alternative schools often have too little parent involvement, and lack of parent participation can
damage prospects for student success. The FACEIT program at RT Fisher Alternative School forces the issue,
and we bring twelve to twenty families into the school every week (And they like it!). We will share the story
of how we use a dynamic program to cut down the number of repeat drug/alcohol offenders through positive
parent involvement.
Pat Conner
Executive Director Office of Safe and Supportive Schools, Tennessee Department of Education
Bill Hunter
Bill Hunter serves a school counselor at RT Fisher Alternative School in Gallatin, Tennessee. After working full
time as school counselor at Gallatin High School for twelve years, he came to RT Fisher where he began to
address the growing number of repeat alcohol and drug offenders in Sumner County Schools. He has led the
parent module of the FACEIT program for the past five years.
Crystal Jacobs
Crystal Jacobs serves as the Transition Coordinator at RT Fisher Alternative School. Her primary task to
support alternative school students as they reenter their home school. A native of New York, Crystal came to
RT Fisher through her internship while completing her Master’s program in counseling. Crystal has served as
the FACEIT Program Coordinator for the past two years.
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
2:00 – 3:00 pm, Breakout Session 4 Presenters:
Empower Teachers, Encourage Students, Elevate Learning
Behavior management in any classroom is optimal when research-based techniques are used that increase
academic performance and eliminate conflict escalation. Participants in this session will examine common
management styles and practice strategies that will help them teach students accountability for behavior.
Students with low-level to severe behavior issues will benefit from their teachers using these common-sense
techniques. Students can experience success, teachers can experience job satisfaction, and a campus can
experience revitalization.
Brenda Prestage
Retired principal, homebound service provider
33 years in public education: 22 as a classroom teacher, 5 years as a high school assistant principal, 4 years as a
high school principal; retired in 2011; 2 additional years as a charter school instructional coach; currently
homebound services provider.
___________________________________
17
Successful Implementation of RTI2 in an Alternative Environment
Response to Intervention and Instruction is a framework that relies on the implementation of high-quality
instruction and interventions tailored to student need where core instructional and intervention decisions are
guided by student outcome data. It is a 3-tiered system. Specifically, this presentation will focus on AIMSWEB
student management system and various interventions that may be used across all grade levels. As well,
appropriate scheduling of RTI will be discussed within the parameters of what is typically a hectic school day in
the life of an alternative school. In conclusion, there will be a presentation on AIMSWEB and how to
successfully demonstrate to parents and students what progress their student in making in the alternative
classroom.
Karen Willey
Karen is the Principal at New Directions Academy in Dickson County. Karen received her B.S. w/c and MAED
in Special Education from Austin Peay State University and an add on-endorsement in Administration and
Supervision for grades K-8 and 7-12. Karen's unique experience as the Director of Education in a residential
setting for 9 1/2 years has served to assist in programming for Dickson County's at-risk population. Karen is
married to Scott Willey and they have two daughters, Sara (24-teaches English in Montgomery County) and
Rosie (21).
Dinah Stockman
Dinah serves as the school’s second in command and as the Behavior Interventionist. Dinah Stockman has a
bachelor's degree in social work and a master's degree in special education. She just completed her 11th year at
New Directions Academy. Dinah is married with two young sons. In her spare time, she enjoys family and
church activities, sports, and reading.
___________________________________
Close Reading & Reading Closely – Creating Text Dependent Questions for Close Analytical Reading.
In this session, teachers will look at the strategy of close reading and how it can be used in all content areas to
promote a precise and deep reading of complex text. Teachers will practice reading and annotating a text
along with developing a variety of text dependent questions to support literacy instruction.
Edie Emery
Secondary ELA Specialist, Rutherford County Schools
Edie has been an Educator in Rutherford County since 1991, taught 7th and 8th grade Reading/Language Arts
from 1991-2012. ELA Specialist for Rutherford County Schools since July 2012.
___________________________________
Prescription Drugs in Tennessee
Agent Farmer will discuss prescription drug abuse trends in Tennessee, educational efforts, signs of
prescription drug abuse, and why the problem is so wide spread.
Tommy Farmer
TBI, Assistant Special Agent in Charge
18
Tuesday, July 8, 2014
3:00 – 4:00 pm, Breakout Session 5 Presenters:
Gang Awareness
Objective: To bring awareness of Youth Gangs of today, Address Gang awareness in schools, Music, Hand signs,
Symbols, (such as tattoos, wearing urban styles of clothing, colors, hairstyles, graffiti, etc.
• Disclaimer: Some language or pictures may be offensive.
Corporal Jim Sanford
Graduated from Oakland H.S in 1982. Corporal Sanford graduated from Freed-Hardeman University in 1986,
with a B.S in Theology. He joined the U.S Army, and worked as a Criminal Investigator (C.I.D). Upon retiring
from the Army, he became a police officer in Tennessee in 1995. While working as a police officer Corporal
Sanford was acting chaplain and S.W.A.T and also a Defensive Tactics Instructor. He is currently with the School
Resource Officer’s (S.R.O) division at the Rutherford county Sheriff’s Office at Smyrna West Alternative School.
The last several years was selected as a Rutherford County Sheriff’s Department Gang Investigator.
___________________________________
Making the Connection- Attendance to Alternative Education
This session will focus on Intervention, Proactive Techniques and Accountability. How school systems can
utilize School Climate and other tools within your system to make your students successful in any Alternative
setting.
Jeanette E. Henning
Attendance Dropout Prevention Specialist for the Jackson-Madison County School System.
As the Attendance Dropout Prevention Specialist for 7 years within that scope of service serves as the Truancy
Board Chairperson, Court liaison, and the School Climate Coordinator. Have 26 years of experience working
with Children and Families with the Juvenile Court Services, 36 years of working with students in the courts
and schools. Presently serves as the West TN Board of Directors for the TN Alternative Education Association
(TAEA), pass TAEA Program Chairperson, Pass Board Member of Juvenile Court Services Association, Diversity
Trainer, member of the Legislative Committee and Program Committee.
Master of Science Degree in Mental Health Counseling, from Freed-Hardeman University with Continuing
Education Hours, University of Tennessee at Martin, Jackson State and the University of Memphis. Volunteer
with Teen Court, West TN Anti –Drug Coalition and is a member of Delta Sigma Theta, Inc.
___________________________________
19
Beyond the Textbook: FREE Teaching Tools for Personal Finance, Economics, History, Business&
More
This hands-on session will highlight the Federal Reserve’s wide array of FREE resources, many of which are new
and improved, that will take you beyond the textbook in your classroom. The interactive program will utilize
various tools to support Common Core including: Lesson plans and activities, Infographics, blogs, and
newsletters - Primary and secondary sources - Student learning modules - Video clips and assessments.
Jackie Morgan
Senior Economic and Financial Education Specialist
Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta – Nashville Branch
Jeannette Bennett
Economic Education Specialist
Federal Reserve Bank of St. Louis – Memphis Branch
___________________________________
Community Anti-Drug Coalitions
This presentation will focus on the importance of community coalitions partnering with school systems to
increase drug and alcohol prevention awareness. Through strategic data collection, PSA's, and coordinating
youth leadership.
Jemonde Davis
Jermonde Davis was born in Murfreesboro and has a strong passion for the youth and people of this
community. He is currently the Outreach Director for the Community Anti-Drug Coalition of
Rutherford County, a Certified Prevention Specialist and has worked with inner-city youth for over 10
years. Jermonde also serves as a Murfreesboro Youth Football Head Coach and as a mentor with the
Big Brothers and Big Sisters program of Middle Tennessee. Jermonde is a father, which also adds to
his drive and devotion to empowering youth and communities. Jermonde’s hope for the future is to
continue to inspire and contribute to positive change in the lives of youth and in the community.
20
Wednesday, July 9, 2014
9:00 – 10:00 am, Breakout Session 6 Presenters:
Teacher Evaluations
Luke Kohlmoos
Director of Evaluation, Tennessee Department of Education
___________________________________
Focusing Our Efforts: Best Practices for Inclusion within the RTI2 Model
The goal of this session is to provide educators with information and resources about co-teaching in order to
support at –risk and Special Education students in Tier I instruction. In addition, practical accommodation and
modification ideas will be shared in order to help all students have success in the classroom.
Kate Kasuboski
Kate is in her 16th year in education. Kate has taught both general education for grades 3-5 and special
education grades 3-8. She has also worked as a Special Education Liaison (Teacher Support Role) and most
recently as the Special Education Program Specialist in Rutherford County, Tennessee.
Janice Fox
Janice is in 19th year in education. She was an Inclusion, General Education Biology Teacher for 12 years. She
has also worked as an Instructional Facilitator for the last 7 years and will be taking on a new role as a RTI Lead
Coach for Rutherford County Schools, Tennessee.
___________________________________
Spectrum Academy Nashville, Classroom Strategies That Work
This presentation will introduce Educational Services of America (ESA) and Spectrum Academy Nashville.
Spectrum Academy is a special day school operated by ESA to serve special education students with emotional
and behavioral difficulties. Spectrum Academy serves students from Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools and
Williamson County Schools in grades 7-12. Spectrum Academy uses a school-wide behavior management
system as well as group and individual behavior strategies. Educational Services of America, Spectrum’s parent
company, headquartered in Nashville, TN, is the nation’s leading provider of special education and alternative
education services. Established in 1999 in the core values of academics, structure, and integrity, ESA is
dedicated to providing an educational advantage to all regardless of their learning style or disability. ESA
schools and programs focus on providing highly individualized planning for each student and smaller class sizes
in a nurturing, highly structured environment. This presentation will discuss strategies used at Spectrum
Academy with the at-risk population of students. The students may be several grade levels below their peers
academically and have acting out behaviors that include verbal and physical aggression. Strategies focus on
developing coping skills to deal with frustration, appropriate language, meeting classroom expectations, school
and bus behavior, dealing with authority figures, and academic intervention and success. These strategies will
include Positive Behavior Intervention Supports, Active Listening, Establishing a Positive School Culture,
Relationship Building, Team-Building, Servant Leadership, and Behavior Management Plans.
Annette Kelly
Director, Spectrum Academy – Nashville
Annette Kelly earned a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics and Secondary Education from Rio Grande College
in Rio Grande, Ohio. She also obtained a Master of Arts Degree in Special Education from Marshall University in
Huntington, West Virginia. She then earned a Masters of Education Degree in Educational Leadership and a
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Doctoral of Education Degree in Leadership and Professional Practices from Trevecca Nazarene University. She
started the Spectrum Academy in Nashville in 2010 to serve Special Education students as contracted with
Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools and is responsible for the daily management of the school with
supervision of staff and teachers, curriculum oversight, and program implementation. Annette has also served
as principal at a youth development center for females committed by the Juvenile Justice system in Nashville
and as principal at a Special Day School for special education students in Nashville.
Tim Ulmer
Vice President, Business Development
Dr. Tim Ulmer joined the business development team at Educational Services of America (ESA) in May 2014.
Dr. Ulmer brings over 15 years’ experience in school improvement, leadership development, special education,
alternative education, student support and intervention systems, and school operations. He comes to ESA
after spending nearly five years at EdisonLearning where he provided professional development, technical
assistance, and operations support to instructional leaders from traditional, charter, alternative, and virtual
schools throughout the country. Prior to his leadership role at EdisonLearning, Dr. Ulmer was a special
education administrator for Seminole County Public Schools, which is located in central Florida.
Tony Van Gytenbeek
Senior Vice President, Strategic Initiatives
Tony Van Gytenbeek has more than 30 years of experience as an educator in the urban K-12 public school
system. Prior to his 2011 retirement as the Deputy Superintendent in the Aurora Public Schools, Mr. Van
Gytenbeek worked as an assistant superintendent of human resources, a middle school principal, a high school
assistant principal, dean of students, language arts teacher and athletic coach. Tony joined the ESA executive
management team in February 2012, and brings a wealth of instructional, operational and practical K-12
experience to the company. Since joining ESA, Tony has been primarily responsible for development, and
implementation of the company’s dropout recovery and ELL program expansion. Mr. Van Gytenbeek earned
his bachelor’s degree at Regis University, his master’s degree at Lesley College and his public school
administrator’s license at the University of Denver.
___________________________________
10 Strategies Proven to Inspire and Engage EVERY Student
Want to engage every student in your classroom? This session will demonstrate 10 strategies proven to
strengthen relationships, grab attention, inspire, and build resilience in students of all ages and learning types.
Participants will receive valuable insights into teaching social and emotional life skills in ways that students can
understand, relate to, and remember. These strategies have helped over 2 million youth in 16,000 K-12
schools, mental health, and correctional organizations worldwide in the areas of academic success, dropout
prevention, classroom management, and bullying prevention. Learn how to engage every student using visual
metaphors, videos, music, and activities.
Christian Moore
LCSW, Founder of WhyTry
Christian is a LCSW who has worked with youth at an alternative high school, the State Department of Youth
Corrections, and a community mental health agency for youth with conduct disorders. His program, “WhyTry,”
is used in over 16,000 youth organizations worldwide, and teaches social and emotional skills using a unique
multisensory learning approach.
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Wednesday, July 9, 2014
10:00 – 11:00 am, Breakout Session 7 Presenters:
There Is a Hero Inside of You
A personal testimony about achieving success when everyone thinks you will fail. I had teachers who believed
in me and could see my talents and they worked with my parents to achieve one thing to create a man who
would be a productive citizen, husband, father and Christian. I will share the three steps of molding children
and how we as children advocates can help develop Hero's in our Community.
James Martin
State Wide Youth Engagement Specialist, Tennessee Voice for Children
James is the proud father of two children and Stepfather of three. Two girls 5, 12 and three boys 17, 18 and 22.
He was born and raised in Maury County, TN and received his education in the Maury County School System.
James attended Columbia State Community College where he majored in Business and Minor in Art Education
for two years. James attended and received Social Worker Certification from Tennessee State University and
HIV and AIDS Intervention and Prevention for Adolescents from Perdue University. He also trained in Anger
Management, Bullying 101, Parent to Parent and Strengthen Families. James enjoys his family and collecting
art, motorcycling and cross-fit training, weight lifting and reading books of about Religion and Personal
Empowerment.
___________________________________
Focusing Our Efforts: Best Practices for Inclusion within the RTI2 Model
The goal of this session is to provide educators with information and resources about co-teaching in order to
support at –risk and Special Education students in Tier I instruction. In addition, practical accommodation and
modification ideas will be shared in order to help all students have success in the classroom.
Kate Kasuboski
Kate is in her 16th year in education. Kate has taught both general education for grades 3-5 and special
education grades 3-8. She has also worked as a Special Education Liaison (Teacher Support Role) and most
recently as the Special Education Program Specialist in Rutherford County, Tennessee.
Janice Fox
Janice is in 19th year in education. She was an Inclusion, General Education Biology Teacher for 12 years. She
has also worked as an Instructional Facilitator for the last 7 years and will be taking on a new role as a RTI Lead
Coach for Rutherford County Schools, Tennessee.
Early Release Intervention Program
Jason will discuss the implementation of the point system used at Parkview Learning Center and the Early
Release Intervention Program for zero tolerance offenders.
Jason Newman
Principal, Parkview Learning Center, Jackson-Madison County Schools
Jason has been the alternative school director for the Chester County School system for 7 years and now in his
third year as an administrator 1.5 years as an assistant principal and 1.5 years as the principal.
___________________________________
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10 Strategies Proven to Inspire and Engage EVERY Student
Want to engage every student in your classroom? This session will demonstrate 10 strategies proven to
strengthen relationships, grab attention, inspire, and build resilience in students of all ages and learning types.
Participants will receive valuable insights into teaching social and emotional life skills in ways that students can
understand, relate to, and remember. These strategies have helped over 2 million youth in 16,000 K-12
schools, mental health, and correctional organizations worldwide in the areas of academic success, dropout
prevention, classroom management, and bullying prevention. Learn how to engage every student using visual
metaphors, videos, music, and activities.
Christian Moore
LCSW, Founder of WhyTry
Christian is a LCSW who has worked with youth at an alternative high school, the State Department of Youth
Corrections, and a community mental health agency for youth with conduct disorders. His program, “WhyTry,”
is used in over 16,000 youth organizations worldwide, and teaches social and emotional skills using a unique
multisensory learning approach.
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Wednesday, July 9, 2014
11:00 – 12:00 pm, Breakout Session 8 Presenters:
Meeting the Needs of Students with Disabilities in an Alternative School Setting
This presentation will identify challenges in the alternative school setting relative to meeting the needs of
students with disabilities and provide strategies to help educators create alternative school programs that
meet the diverse needs of students with disabilities.
Dr. Karen Ball
Student Services Supervisor, Shelby County Schools
___________________________________
Improving Student Behavior Through Improved Teacher-Student Relationships
One of the essential keys to improving student behavior is creating an atmosphere of mutual respect in the
classroom. This is accomplished in part by connecting with kids, and demonstrating you care about the
“person”, and not just the “student.” "Comprehensive Classroom Management" by Vern and Louise Jones
cited that in 2003, Marzano, Marzano and Pickering performed meta-analysis of more than 100 studies on the
topic and concluded "that positive student-teacher relationships were the foundation of effective classroom
management and that these positive relationships could reduce behavior problems by 31 percent." (p.62).
Come prepared to share strategies you have utilized to accomplish this, as well as ways you tangibly reward
academic and behavioral excellence. After the conference, you will have a plethora of tried and true strategies
to add to your toolbox, courtesy of others currently “in the trenches.”
Don P. Gramke
M.A. Education, B.A.A. Secondary Education, five years teaching in alternative education,
___________________________________
Maintaining a Comprehensive School Counseling Program in an Alternative School Setting
How does one provide an effective ASCA-aligned school-counseling program in an alternative school setting?
Discover how an AEP/DAEP school in North Texas utilizes community resources, student families, and other
district counselors to address the academic, socio-emotional, and career needs of students K-12.
Tishara Robinson
(ABD) Argosy University - Dallas 8 years school counselor 3 years At-Risk/Intervention Counselor
___________________________________
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Collaborating to Serve-Leading Schools Through Connecting With Community Stakeholders
In this enlightening session, Dr. Bishop highlights the varied community collaborations that has been
developed through the Columbia County Alternative School to serve students during a time of budget cuts,
furloughs and staff reductions. The success of the alternative school is strengthened through strong
community partnerships. Over the years, a solid tapestry of interconnected programs and individuals who help
support students through inter-agency referrals, resource sharing, and external expertise. The advantages of
collaboration are numerous, and they benefit our students and all parties involved. Benefits of community
collaboration include referrals, shared resources, timesavings, alternative perspectives, and educational
opportunities. All of these benefits are increased by the synergy between common interests working towards a
common goal ... serving our alternative education students. The presentation will introduce resources
provided by Columbia County Alternative School (Evans, Georgia), which addresses improving the graduation
rate, character development, community forums, substance sobriety, faith-based community, military &
juvenile court collaborations, and connections with local media and non-profit organizations.
Dr. Ja’net Bishop
A former military officer, also has 19-years suburban & rural experience in alternative education, middle &
high school counseling, administration, and support to the local juvenile justice system in Georgia. Previously,
Dr. Bishop has been an alternative school counselor (4-years), an alternative program administrator in a rural
school system (4-years) while also serving as the high school principal. Currently, she is the alternative school
principal in a suburban community in Georgia. Dr. Bishop is a Board member of the Georgia Association of
Alternative Education (GAAE) and member of the National Alternative Education Association (NAEA). She has
presented on school culture and climate, establishing collaborations, and at-risk teen issues.
___________________________________
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Wednesday, July 9, 2014
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm, General Session
Annual Meeting on Membership and Closing Session
Closing remarks by TAEA Board members followed by general election of 2014-2016 Board Members.
Everyone welcome – Door Prizes will be drawn from all conference attendees.
Door Prizes donated by
Tennessee Army National Guard – Backpack/Laptop Carrier with prize pack
Firestone Service Center – Free tire Rotation and Balance
Creekwood – Gift Basket
The Hermitage -????
Danny Hill /The Power of ICU – New Books
H3O Aquatics – Hydro Massages
Odyesseyware - Kindle
The Rutherford County Chamber of Commerce – Gift Basket
Christian Moore – Why Try
and many others
Door Prizes will be given out at the Closing Session on Wednesday, July 9th.
YOU MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN!!!
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TAEA 2013 – 2014 Board of Directors
Paul Thacker
President
West, TN
Lee Farris
Vice-President
Middle, TN
Garry Jett
Board Member
East, TN
Karen Ball
Secretary
West, TN
Major Shelton
Treasurer
Middle, TN
Chris Johnson
Board Member
East, TN
Jeanette
Henning
Board Member
West, TN
David Turner
Board Member
Middle, TN
Darren Leach
Board Member
East, TN
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Special Thanks to Our Exhibitors!